Accessibility Supports
Wheelchairs
For self-guided programs, a limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Visitor Center on the Arboretum’s East Side (parking lot P-1). For guided programs, wheelchairs can be reserved in advance by contacting the school programs specialist at mkuhl-horbin@mortonarb.org.
Accessible Paths
Most guided programs take place on wood-chipped, dirt, or grass trails. For guided programs, staff will adjust routes to meet student needs whenever possible, prioritizing the paved Joy Path at parking lot P-21, or the paved roads and paths at parking lots P-25 and P-29.
Accessible Buildings
The Visitor Center, the Ginkgo Restaurant and Café, The Arboretum Store, the West Pavilion of the Visitor Center, and the Administration and Research Center are wheelchair-accessible spaces on the Arboretum’s East Side. Thornhill Education Center on the Arboretum’s West Side has a wheelchair ramp at its side entrance, and an elevator inside.
Sensory Supports
Maps, social stories, choice boards, if/then cards, maps, videos, and other sensory supports are included in our Field Trip Accessibility Bundle.
Lunch Spaces
Lunch seating for guided programs is reserved at the Thornhill Picnic Area. All tables are labeled with school names. If you need a wheelchair-accessible table, please contact the School Programs specialist at mkuhl-horbin@mortonarb.org. Lunches for self-guided programs at Meadow Lake Picnic Area are not reserved and are first-come, first-served.
Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are available in the Visitor Center and Children’s Garden (parking lot P-1), and Thornhill Education Center (parking lot P-21). Accessible portable toilets are available at the Big Rock Visitor Station (parking lot P-13) and the Prairie Visitor Station (parking lot P-25).
Children’s Garden Resources
Visit Accessibility and Inclusion at the Children’s Garden for information about accessibility supports specific to the Children’s Garden.
Accessible Parking
There are accessible parking spots that can accommodate buses with wheelchair lifts at parking lot P-1.
If you are participating in a guided program at parking lot P-21 and have a bus with a wheelchair lift, please identify it in your registration form, or contact the school program specialist at mkuhl-horbin@mortonarb.org so that we can accommodate a suitable unloading area.
